United Airlines Beats Q2 Estimates but Fuel Costs Weigh on Earnings

According to CNBC, United Airlines reported second-quarter results that exceeded Wall Street estimates, though higher fuel costs continue to pressure earnings. The carrier posted adjusted earnings per share of $1.99, above the $1.88 expected, and revenue of $17.67 billion, versus the $17.61 billion estimate. United forecast third-quarter adjusted earnings per share of between $2.50 and $3.50, below analysts' estimate of $3.60, and projected full-year adjusted earnings per share of between $9 and $11. The airline said higher fuel prices could add nearly $6 billion to its expenses this year compared with its initial 2026 expectations, with second-quarter fuel costs rising 84% year over year to $2.3 billion. United noted it would cover up to 90% of its higher costs this quarter and all of them in the fourth quarter. The carrier reported net income fell more than 17% to $805 million, or $2.46 a share, while revenue rose 16% from a year earlier. United said it could further cut capacity plans due to higher fuel costs.